Gardening Therapy

Whether interactive or passive; gardens and gardening nurtures the body, mind and spirit of a survivor. Sitting on a bench, or walking through a garden they can take in the quiet and beauty. Feeling successful, capable and needed builds self-worth and self esteem; comes from engaging in planting, caring and harvesting a garden. The use of their hands and bodies also helps connecting to their emotions.

The American Horticulture Therapy Association defines this therapy as “a process utilizing plants and horticultural activities to improve social, educational, psychological and physical adjustments of person. Thus improving their body, mind and spirit.”